South Dakota Senate Bill SB57

South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23

Caption

Revise the eligibility of alternative instruction students for participation in school district activities.

Impact

The enactment of SB57 would specifically affect state laws surrounding the participation of students in alternative instruction programs, ensuring they have the opportunity to engage in various extracurricular activities. This bill mandates that enrolled students must comply with the same training and eligibility rules as other students. It also lays out protocols for parents or guardians to validate their child's participation by submitting proof of age and a transcript of completed coursework, thereby reinforcing academic accountability among students receiving alternative instruction.

Summary

Senate Bill 57 aims to revise the eligibility requirements for students receiving alternative instruction to participate in activities organized by school districts in South Dakota. Currently, the bill states that any student enrolling in a South Dakota district for alternative instruction may engage in interscholastic activities sponsored by the South Dakota High School Activities Association, provided they meet certain criteria. This change intends to create a more standardized approach for allowing alternative instruction students to be included in school activities, which has been a topic of discussion regarding equal access to educational resources.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB57 have highlighted concerns among educators and policymakers about the implications of allowing alternative instruction students to participate in school activities. Supporters argue that it promotes inclusivity and recognizes the diverse educational avenues available to students, while opponents may view it as a dilution of the standards and regulations that ensure all participating students are adequately prepared for competition at the interscholastic level. This conflicting perspective signals potential debates on how the educational needs of diverse student groups can be balanced with maintaining competitive integrity.